Run for Recovery: Supporting an Ukrainian Soldier

As we gather here, let's reflect on the resilience and bravery exemplified by individuals like the Ukrainian soldier whose story compels us to action. Imagine spending Christmas and New Year's Eve not with loved ones, but confined to a hospital bed, enduring excruciating pain and multiple surgeries, all stemming from an injury sustained while bravely serving his country.

This soldier's journey is one of sacrifice and struggle. Wounded in battle at just 30 years old, his leg bore the brunt of an explosive device's impact during a bitterly cold Christmas on the battlefield. For hours, he lay there with an open leg fracture, surrounded by the chaos of conflict, awaiting rescue that would eventually come at great cost to his physical and emotional well-being.

His road to recovery has been arduous, marked by countless surgeries and grueling rehabilitation sessions. Yet, despite the pain and separation from family and friends, his spirit remains unbroken. Unable to walk and stripped of his military wage due to his inability to fight, he faces an uncertain future fraught with financial burdens.

But amidst the darkness, there shines a beacon of hope — the opportunity for us to make a tangible difference in his life. By rallying together, we can alleviate the weight of medical bills and rehabilitation expenses that threaten to derail his journey toward healing and mobility.

As I lace up my running shoes for the Venice marathon, I invite you to join me in this noble endeavour. Every step I take will be fueled by the knowledge that our collective efforts will enable this courageous soldier to reclaim his independence and stride confidently into the future.

Together, let's turn compassion into action and ensure that his sacrifice is met with the support and gratitude he so rightly deserves. Join me in running for a cause that transcends borders and embodies the true essence of humanity — the unwavering commitment to stand by those who have sacrificed so much in service to others.